Charges dismissed against Kanye West in airport scuffle with paparazzi
An L.A. court commissioner today dismissed all charges against rapper Kanye West related to a confrontation with paparazzi last year at Los Angeles International Airport.
On Sept. 12, 2008, West was arrested on suspicion of vandalism and his road manager, Don Crowley, was arrested on suspicion of vandalism and battery at LAX after the two men reportedly confronted a photographer and smashed his camera, authorities said.
The incident outside the passenger screening area in Terminal 4 caused a delay of about 20 minutes for passengers waiting to get through security.
The Los Angeles County district attorney's office declined to file charges against West. But the Los Angeles city attorney did file eight misdemeanor charges, including battery, grand theft and vandalism.
Today, court commissioner Mark Zuckman dismissed the charges against both West and Crowley. City prosecutors opposed the dismissal, arguing that both defendants exhibited "felonious intent."
West agreed to perform community service for the American Red Cross, his attorney said.
"I am very pleased the court granted dismissal of all charges," said attorney Blair Berk.
-- Andrew Blankstein
Photo: Getty Images
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